Alex Eala’s second French Open stint came to an early end after a 6-4, 6-2 defeat to 17th seed Iva Jovic on Tuesday (Philippine time), as the American’s steady play and strong returning proved too much in their first-round clash.

The match opened on a competitive note, with Eala immediately applying pressure and earning two break chances in the first game.

Her aggressive returns and ability to extend rallies on clay hinted at an upset bid, but Jovic held firm — a moment that set the tone for the rest of the opening set.

Jovic capitalized soon after, breaking in the fourth and sixth games to surge ahead, 5-1. Eala, however, showed resilience, clawing back with two late breaks to cut the deficit to 5-4. Just as momentum seemed to shift, Jovic responded with another break to secure the set.

Despite Eala posting a higher first-serve percentage, it was Jovic who dominated the second-serve exchanges and key points, giving her a crucial edge.

The second set stayed close early, with both players trading breaks en route to a 2-2 tie. But Jovic’s consistency and returning once again made the difference, as the 18-year-old reeled off four straight games to close the match.

Her advantage on return points, particularly off Eala’s first serve, underscored her control down the stretch.

The loss ends Eala’s clay-court campaign, with the Filipina set to shift focus to the grass season carrying a world ranking of No. 37.